Housed within a former coaching inn at the centre of Barnstaple, The Royal & Fortescue has held onto the character of its historic bones while giving guests the contemporary comforts they expect. The 49 ensuite bedrooms are smart and well-proportioned, and the Lord Fortescue Restaurant makes good use of locally sourced produce for its evening menu. For something more relaxed, 62 The Bank — the hotel’s bistro — offers a convivial atmosphere without the formality. Free parking, free Wi-Fi, and 24-hour room service keep the practicalities covered.
Heated indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, and hot stone beds are available at the nearby sister hotel, giving Royal & Fortescue guests access to a fuller leisure offering than the town-centre footprint might suggest.
North Devon golf breaks from Barnstaple benefit from proximity to some outstanding courses. Saunton Golf Club, with its two links layouts, Royal North Devon at Westward Ho! — the oldest links in England — and Ilfracombe are all within thirty minutes. When you’re not on the course, the sandy beaches at Saunton, Woolacombe, and Croyde, along with Exmoor National Park, make a compelling backdrop for a tailor-made break.
